The latest from filmmaking team Sam Green and Carrie Lozano, The Universal Language is a whimsical, upbeat portrait of Esperanto. The language, which literally translates to “one who hopes,” was developed by Dr. Ludovic Lazarus Zamenhof in the late 1800s in the belief that the chances of peace were greater if people from around the world could communicate effectively with one another. Esperanto may come second to English in terms of worldwide speakers, but it is still a success story. Its many advocates firmly believe that Esperanto will continue to swell, attracting new speakers all around the globe. The film weaves interviews with linguists, archival imagery, and a series of colorful, brief vignettes of Esperanto speakers from around the world describing their favorite words and phrases. We both learn the history and encounter the charm of this inspired language. The sheer delight its supporters take in articulating its expressions is testimony to the rewards of dedicating oneself to the quest for greater understanding.  ST